Chollo (Shiluk) Kingdom honored President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Saturday for his relentless efforts in restoring peace in the country.
His Majesty, Kwongo Dak Padiet, the King of Chollo Kingdom, acknowledged the role played by the government of national unity for signing the Revitalized Agreement for the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan(R-ARCSS).
Dak said economic development is strong catalyst for social harmony and peace among communities.
He emphasized that the traditions and customs have a central role in peace making because they have in-built processes for reconciliation, healing and peace.
King of Anyuak Kingdom, His Majesty Akwei Agada Akei appealed to youth to shun violence and embrace peace in order to foster development in the country.
The two traditional leaders urged internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees to come out of camps and return back to their respective communities to work for peace.
President Salva Kiir Mayardit, said that his administration will work jointly with the traditional authorities to promote peace and preserve national heritage.
“I am fully aware of the important role of traditional leadership in our quest for permanent peace and stability. My government is ready to partner with you not just to achieve peace but to continuously work together to fulfill the aspirations of our people. It is time for peace not just among the politicians but for ordinary people at the grassroots across the country,” Kiir said.
Kiir assured that his government will do its best to restore stability in areas affected by violence.
Upper Nile State where Chollo kingdom is found has been mired in unending violence since August last year, following fighting between Agwelek forces led by renegade General Johnson Olony and splinter faction of Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in Opposition led by Simon Gatwech Dual.
More than 30,000 civilians have been displaced from their homes due to the violence which exacerbated in November 2022.
“I am calling upon you to do your part in maintaining social harmony both within your communities and with your neighbors. Respect traditional authorities and allow the accumulated wisdom of these revered institutions to guide how you relate to one another within your communities as well as with your neighbors,” Kiir said.
He expressed his gratitude for the honour bestowed upon him by the Chollo kingdom.
“I thank you for honoring me in this event. Your Majesty, I accept this honor on behalf of those who are working for peace both at national and grassroots levels. I dedicate this honor to faceless thousands of peacemakers across South Sudan whose work go unnoticed everyday despite the role they play in maintaining peaceful co-existence within their communities and beyond,” Kiir said.
